LINCOLN, Neb. — Nebraska is putting railroad safety front and center this week, reminding drivers and pedestrians that when it comes to trains, caution can save lives.
On Tuesday, Gov. Jim Pillen signed a proclamation officially recognizing See Tracks? Think Train Week in Nebraska. The campaign, supported by the Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT), is all about raising awareness of the dangers around railroad crossings and encouraging safer decisions near the tracks.
“Raising awareness is vital as we continue working toward the goal of making every railroad crossing safe and eliminating fatalities,” said NDOT Director Vicki Kramer. She added that the department values partnerships with Operation Lifesaver, local safety districts, and law enforcement in spreading the message statewide.
Why It Matters
Every three hours in the U.S., a person or vehicle is struck by a train. Last year alone, more than 1,000 people were killed or injured in vehicle-train collisions nationwide, including 18 incidents right here in Nebraska. Another 1,438 people across the country were hurt or killed walking on or near tracks, with seven incidents reported in the state.
Those numbers show why campaigns like this are so important. Rail Safety Week — which Nebraska’s effort is part of — has one clear goal: to reduce deaths and injuries by reminding everyone to be alert, patient, and cautious around railroad tracks.
What Nebraska Is Doing
Beyond public awareness, Nebraska is also investing in major projects to improve safety at crossings. Earlier this year, the state received nearly $68 million in federal grants to eliminate dangerous crossings and study problem areas.
In Lincoln, $66.7 million will fund the 33rd and Cornhusker Viaduct Project, building a bridge over a busy rail corridor and removing two at-grade crossings. Grand Island received $600,000 to study 17 crossings and create an improvement plan, while another $600,000 will help study 73 crossings between Omaha and Lincoln.
These projects, combined with public education, aim to make Nebraska’s rail system safer for both drivers and pedestrians.
The Bottom Line
Nebraska’s message this week is simple: if you see tracks, think train. Trains can’t stop quickly, and taking chances at crossings can have deadly consequences.
By focusing on awareness and investing in safer infrastructure, officials hope to bring the number of rail-related deaths and injuries down to zero.